Impressed with stock skidplates on TE

[BlackWorksInc]

I am currently running gravel shield-less (as they are really there for gravel and not "true skid plates") on my 4th gen. The stock skid was starting to take the shape of my front pumpkin from the abuse and is cracked/bent in many places. I don't try to slide on rocks, but its taken some abuse... It did protect the underside somewhat, but the factory gravel shields are very weak and extremely sacrificial versus say Budd Builts that can be hammered on a few times before they tweak out.

 

[Viper45]

I don't try to slide on rocks, but its taken some abuse... It did protect the underside somewhat, but the factory gravel shields are very weak and extremely sacrificial versus say Budd Builts that can be hammered on a few times before they tweak out.

Which I think is the biggest distinction, 99% of people don't use these for anything but gravel shields while heading to the mall. This forum (should) know the differences between 1/16 and 3/16 steel and that Toyota isn't going to be throwing on extra pounds for the 1% of enthusiasts that use this one part <10% of the time.

 

[STX4Runner]

^^Especially when the hardcore off roaders can buy aftermarket ones.

 

[STX4Runner]

Here's my stock mid skid after dragging it on rocks in Colorado last month. Not as bad as some, but still bent. RCI front skid has been ordered and then I will have the full set (minus gas tank, still haven't bought it yet).

 

[Viper45]

lol, mine looks just like yours after a few trips to Summit Co. this summer. Like you I went with RCI and will have it installed once I can paint it! :cheers:

 

[cbielat]

Update us when you get into some rockier terrain with those stock skids. Check out some of the pics from [MENTION=95721]Icufltrn[/MENTION]. He was out with us and folded up his front skid like an accordion. I also know he's not the only one lol. I guess they're good for mild wheeling though.

 

[Jono.ful]

I'm feeling some-what vindicated. thanks for sharing the photos guys!

 

[STX4Runner]

Update us when you get into some rockier terrain with those stock skids. Check out some of the pics from [MENTION=95721]Icufltrn[/MENTION]. He was out with us and folded up his front skid like an accordion. I also know he's not the only one lol. I guess they're good for mild wheeling though.

The terrain was plenty rocky. It's just my awesome skills that saved the stock skids at all! But seriously, I would not want to do any harder trails with stock skids. Once I have the full RCI set I'll feel like I can do some harder trails and not worry about damage so much.

 

[Jeremy556]

The terrain was plenty rocky. It's just my awesome skills that saved the stock skids at all! But seriously, I would not want to do any harder trails with stock skids. Once I have the full RCI set I'll feel like I can do some harder trails and not worry about damage so much.

I think he was talking to the OP. I'm pretty sure even the easier trails in Summit County are on a whole other level than anything in the north east.

 

[cbielat]

The terrain was plenty rocky. It's just my awesome skills that saved the stock skids at all! But seriously, I would not want to do any harder trails with stock skids. Once I have the full RCI set I'll feel like I can do some harder trails and not worry about damage so much.

I'm running the RCI skids in steel. Still managed to dent in the oil filter window on the front skid. You'll be happy with them.

 

[STX4Runner]

I'm running the RCI skids in steel. Still managed to dent in the oil filter window on the front skid. You'll be happy with them.

Good to know. I have been happy with the T-case and transmission skids so far. Glad they finally came out with a KDSS-compatible front skid.

 

[Kbstone]

Here's mine after a recent trip

It was completely folded over and facing forward like a plow. Was able to bend it back to the point you see it but it is no longer on the truck.

OUCH...I'm sure you felt that one....my experience was way less destructive!

 

[Sundog7121]

I'm in the process of replacing my stock skids with RCI skids. Front RCI is installed, the next two are due here next week (or so). When I get them all installed I'll have my pre-dented and scratched skids available for a very reasonable price. :bravo: They have been over Black Bear twice, Imogene three times, Ophir, California, Hurricane, etc. Intrinsic value is high.

:cheers: